Curiosities: the ex-pat life

25 February 2014

I’ve probably overly romanticized it, but there’s just something wonderful and whimsical about picking up my life and moving it to some exotic country.

It’s not that I don’t like Chicago, or the US for that matter, but… The ex-pat life just seems so much more exciting. Given my limited language skills, I’d probably choose returning to China. It’s the place that felt most like home, in my limited international travels.

Me and two of my roommates, Enda & June, in front of the school where I taught.

Though I’ll admit that the first place I truly considered becoming an ex-pat was South Africa, sitting near Table Mountain near Cape Town. We were nearing the end of our 10-day trip, working on a documentary, and I just felt like I wasn’t done. That trip, though it was short, really challenged me on what my place was as a white, North American woman to help anyone… And I thought maybe if I stayed, I might be able to figure that out. Maybe feel like I did some good. But I didn’t stay — I still had the rest of my junior year of college to finish up, a new niece and a terminally ill stepmother to return to.

The actual moment I was considering staying in South Africa.

There always seems to be something to keeps me rooted, almost firmly, not only in the US but Chicago. I know life without me here would go on, but it’s hard to picture my life here at an end — even if it’s just temporary. Even if it’s in exchange for this exciting adventure in a new country. Being a state away is already hard enough when it comes to being an active part of my family’s lives.

And of course, there’s the matter of my cats. It seems silly, but the idea that I can’t bring my cats with me — nor would I really have a good place for them to go — would definitely keep me from leaving. My mom’s already got one cat, and I know adding two more to the mix wouldn’t go well. They could possibly go to my dad’s, but only short term, and they would be confined to the basement. Their place is with me, where I know they’ll be loved and taken care of. Not to mention, they already have abandonment issues and I don’t want to add to that.

I also fear that my desires to move to another country are just me running away from things here. My job or job search not going well — maybe a new country would help. My writing is slacking or uninspired — maybe a new country would help. My self-esteem is wavering — maybe a new country would help. Those aren’t good enough reasons or excuses to move myself away from everything.

In the mean time, I can keep imagining it. And, hopefully, I’ll be able to continue traveling. Sometimes just a small trip is enough to satiate wanderlust. For now, I’m content with Chicago and the home I’ve built here. Yes, I’m curious, but, who knows where I’ll end up.

be awesome:

I think we all get that urge to move and leave. I know I have but then things keep me here (family, friends). I hope to one day move though, even for a short time, to just say I did it!

Mike

They’re always hiring English teachers in South Korea. I’ve heard really good things about it from several friends. Shouldn’t be any reason you couldn’t take the cats, probably would involve some red tape. It’s apparently a great place to live cheaply and save good money.

Erini

Bringing animals to another country involves a lot of red tape and money. The animal has to go through a lot of exams and is quarantined. I’ve read some stories of it costing a couple grand in some countries. Just a lot of hassle.

Archives

The content of this blog is solely the commentary and experience of the author and does not in any way, shape, or form reflect the opinions or values of her employers (past or present) or any sponsors. Some names may have been changed. Some of the events may have been changed. Unless otherwise stated, this blog is in no way affiliated with any company or product. Please do not steal or reproduce any of the content of this site without permission from the author.